Court ruling on election date binding, says Kibaki

Written By:Margaret Kalekye/PPS,    Posted: Fri, Mar 09, 2012

President Kibaki stressed that he respected the rule of law adding that the court’s ruling was binding(FILE) President Mwai Kibaki Friday clarified that the next general elections in the country shall be guided by the ruling made by the High Court early this year. President Kibaki stressed that he respected the rule of the law adding that the court's ruling was binding. He called for responsible and accurate reporting among the local media. The President reiterated that he does not engage in falsehoods or underhand schemes and is always forthright in his national duties. Early this year a Constitutional Court ruled that Kenya must go to the polls in March 2013 unless the grand coalition is dissolved. In the ruling the three-judge bench ruled said that elections could be held within 60 days after the expiry of current Parliament, which is January 14, 2013. The Constitution envisages that elections be held on the second Tuesday every fifth year, which translates to August 14, 2012. The President made the remarks during a meeting with grassroot leaders and professionals from the Nyeri County at the Sagana State Lodge. During the occasion the Head of State emphasized that the anticipated devolved governance structures outlined in the constitution will offer unparalleled thrust in national development. President Kibaki underscored that with unity of purpose among various counties in the country more wealth and opportunities would be created for all Kenyans. The Head of State advocated for inter-county engagements and collaboration especially among regions that are involved in similar economic activities to harness their potential and to market their goods jointly for maximum benefits to local people.